ROXBURY TOWNSHIP, NJ (Morris County) – An investigation continues in Roxbury Township after a father killed his wife, teen son, and then taking his own life, according to Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll.
On March 7, at around 10:00 a.m., police responded to a residence on Justine Place in the Succasunna section of the township for a welfare check. The check was requested by one of the deceased’s friends after they were unable to reach them.
Upon arrival, officers made entry into the residence and discovered Peter Ventricelli, 57, Kellie Ventricelli, 58, and Anthony Ventricelli, 15, all visibly deceased from what appeared to be gunshot wounds. A subsequent investigation suggests they died during the early-morning hours, Carroll said.
At this time, authorities believe Peter Ventricelli, who works as a private contractor, shot and killed his wife, Kellie, and his son, Anthony, Carroll said.
“The motive and circumstances of these heinous acts are under investigation. Our investigation will involve scene analysis, electronic device review, and interviews,” Carroll said.
Further information on the two victims will not be disclosed, Carroll said.
“This is a tragic murder suicide brought on by domestic violence. It is a heartbreaking loss for the Ventricelli family. Neighbors, schoolmates, friends and the Roxbury community as a whole are mourning this shocking and senseless loss of life. We ask that citizens exercise discretion and compassion while discussing the situation on social media,” Carroll said.
“There is no danger to the public and further information will be made available as our investigation progresses,” Carroll said
New Jersey’s 1991 Prevention of Domestic Violence Act recognizes that domestic violence is a serious crime against society, that victims of domestic violence come from all social and economic backgrounds and ethnic groups, and that violent behavior against victims of domestic violence will not be excused or tolerated. Domestic violence includes crimes such as homicide, assault, and any crime involving risk of death or serious bodily injury, as committed by people who are, or were, in a family or romantic relationship or have ever lived together with the victim(s).
